CarVertical: The History Checking Service Use this link or code "JAYEMM" for a discount! www.carvertical.com/gb/landing/v3?b=1e4c9523&a=JayEmm&voucher=jayemm&chan=jayemm
I have a 2014 XK 5.0 Portfolio which I’ve owned for nearly 5 years now. I’ve put over 27,000 miles on it and have used it as a daily driver and for trips across Europe. It is without question one of the most capable and reliable cars I’ve owned. During Covid my job meant that I had to travel to and from Frankfurt and the only way to get there was by car. It did the 500 mile journey with ease. On the Autobahn it could cruise at 120mph and feel perfectly comfortable and it still returned over 30mpg. In my opinion you cannot beat a rear wheel drive naturally aspirated V8 and I think this is one of the finest Jaguar has ever produced. Ian Callum designed and suspension and handling developed by Mike Cross, it doesn’t get much better than that.
I owned a 5.0 XK Portfolio. Like you I used it as my daily driver. On one run to Cornwall it returned an incredible 37mpg. It never missed a beat in my ownership.
@@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOneI never quite achieved that level of mpg, but on a 2000 mile trip around Europe two years ago we did manage to see 35 mpg which was interestingly the same as my friend’s diesel Nissan Navara who we did the trip with.
Any lad who is in their twenties and early 30s who drive a jaaaggg has my respect, please do yes I don't mind if you borrow my cutlery, I've had many others from the many hosts that have been so kind to me. Don't tell them about the oil paintings though...
Been watching all your XK videos over and over again, dreaming of owning one - thanks Jayemm. I’m now the very proud owner of an early high miles 08 XK in botanical green. It’s my first car, and I can’t ever see myself wanting to own anything else. That roar, that class, that feeling ❤ At 27, I think I’ll look back on this as one of the best things I did in my 20s
My neighbour owned a convertible of this, new since 2008. Still being driven regularly and never seemed to have any problems. They’ve cycled through about 5/6 2nd cars but this remains on the road! Great car, still as cool as the first day I saw it.
We traded our fully loaded Volvo S90 for a 2007 XK convertible after moving from Upstate New York to Florida in 2022. It's my wife's daily driver and she loves having the top down in just about all kinds of weather. We've had very few problems and we always get comments about the looks of the proper Jaag!
My wife and I currently have a 2008 XK 4.2L n/a. Your review is right on! Great car! It's LIGHT at around 3759 lbs, good on gas, relatively quick, handles great and rides nice, stops well, has a good transmission (manual mode shifts relatively quickly), sounds pretty good and is gorgeous and still gets an occasional comment on its good looks. We recently put Michelin Pilot Sport 4s' on it and that was a great decision. Thinking about changing the wheels on it as it has the base wheels on it. We love the car. Great review.
Shamefully I always looked at these as simply budget DB9s… until I finally drove one, glorious cars. My Maserati didn’t get driven much when I had this on my drive for a month 👏 I hope Giles is enjoying it 😊
While the X150 XK and XKR are more mechanically advanced cars, the X100 versions of the XK8 and XKR simply look more curvaceous and sexier, due to a much more obvious lineage to the E-Type. No one chooses an E-Type because it's mechanically "better" than an XK8, and no one will choose an X100 because of mechanical superiority. It all just depends on whether your inner engineer or your inner artist is behind the wheel.
I've got the XK8 on my bucket list, and it's a standard one. Plain 4.2 V8. Coupe, as it looks better. I saw a metallic maroon one pulling up to a junction as I passed, and it looked drop-dead gorgeous!
I bought one of these last year. Mine is a Liquid Silver 4.2 XK60, which is the model produced to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the original XK engine. These cars are wonderful for covering distances in, as evidenced to me with the ease in which it took my Fiancée and I to Le Mans last year, and will be again this year. MPG is surprisingly high for a 4.2 V8, I get 35MPG on most of the long runs. Jaguar got everything that matters so very right when they made this. It's pretty, it's well equipped, it's well built, and it has just enough technology to make your life easier without the worry of it being full of a million touchscreens and other annoying "driver aids". In short, this is probably one of the best cars ever made in the last 50 years.
I recently bought a 2006 XJ8 VDP LWB 4.2 here in America. Lovely car, effortless power even though it is a NA version. Mine has been converted to coil-overs, got new A-arms at the same time. My other Jaguar is a 2016 3.0 S F-Type 6mt, another fine automobile. A friend is on the hunt for a supercharged XK, I look forward to seeing that! I'm sure I'd have been happy with a car such as this one but I did want a manual in the F-Type, paid a lot to get it!
@@johnnyjohnson8928 I like it, it isn't as good as my '16 MX-5/Miata but feels fine. I've heard it might not be as robust as later ones but the way I drive, I am 77, it should hold up well enough. I put 4,000 miles on the car last year, that will probably be fairly typical. I have the MX-5 and recently bought an '06 Jaguar XJ8, so driving will be spread around. I live in New Hampshire, the car won't come out in winter with salt on the roads, we just got over a foot of snow today.
Had one for six years and agree with everything you say. Was always puzzled by it being ignored. I have an air cooled 911 and a modern MX5. They fit together well being very different but all great fun
I had a caviar 5 litre XK for just over a year, but could not tolerate the constant creaking and groaning if I had th seat far enough back for my long legs as the seat scraped against badly placed upright .I changed it for an XJ Portfolio in silver with parchment interior and non-blacked out rear windows. What a marvellous car---I do NOT miss the too small interior of the XK.
I've had my 2007 coupe for 12 years and have 130k miles on it now. It is the best car of any manufacturer I've ever owned. And I've had quite a few cars since 1985!
I have an early production 2006 XK 4.2 Convertible, fitted with all the optional extras Jaguar did at the time. I have not been able to confirm, but I am pretty sure it was a dealer demonstrator when they were first launched. Had it now for eight years. It s a wonderful grand tourer and a great beast in manual sport. My wife and I are driving down to the Italian Lakes in it later this year, taking in some of the lesser known Alpine passes on the way.
I own a 996. It's a great car to drive and offers excellent value for money. If you wanted a decent air cooled 911, there's no way you can get a good one under 50 thousand pounds. If you want a really good 964 or 993 you'll pay close to hundred thousand. You can virtually buy 6-10 996's for that money. It's just insane. That's the fate of the most unloved generation. But it's all good for us who are looking for a great sportscar for a reasonable money. I love the looks of the XK but it's not really comparable to a 996 in my eyes. It's more of the genre of Merc SL and Porsche 928.
I recently acquired an XFR 5.0 SC, and whilst it has a few issues to work through - leaky front crank shaft bearing, TPMS sensors issue it is otherwise proving to ve pretty reliable and GREAT to drive. Thank engine. And the handling, and steering, and the general interior. Love my Jag, and would absolutely consider getting some varient of the XK at some point.
Great video! I particularly liked your comment that it "exudes elegance - not shouty or raucous" ....which is exactly why I bought the 2007 XK 4.2 in slate grey. It's a beautiful car to drive and look at!
Can't help myself thinking this big coupe would be stunning with fullsized panoramic (idealy lifting) sunroof like Mustang 2012 optionally could have. Imagine that visually airy cabin full of sunlight iluminating wallnut wood and almond leather.....
I own a 2006 NA 4.2 XK, with the traditional Jag interior (beige leather and wood, as it should! ^^), and I daily drive it. A car as lovely as it is classy! 😎
I always thought it was odd they didn't sell the 3litre V6. That engine had more power than the contemporary BMW or Mercedes engines, which were available in the heavier 6 Series (630i) and SL300 (which admittedly are quite rare) about the same time.
Thanks fella. I wrote the Villains spot with my creative partner and we had the best time reminding people that sometimes it’s good to be bad. The cars were always special.
Oh neat! I love that spot. I’m also commercial filmmaker and that’s definitely an inspiration piece for me. We need to produce more films like that! Are you a creative in an ad agency?
I've had one of these as my daily driver for over 6 years now and it has been the best car I've owned. Comfortable, fast enough, great for European road trips, a fantastic engine and very reliable. I agree with what you said about it being forgiving if you aren't used to this type of car. You can gain confidence whilst living with it.
Very nice - and accurate - review of the standard, early XK. I've had one for 10 years now and still love it. Looks & drives mint and there's not much out there now that looks better, IMO.
I have recently purchased a 2007 Liquid Silver XK convertible. I use it as a daiy. Love it. Get people complimenting it at the gas station or carwash al the time. It is fully loaded. Has a few issues such as creaking bushings in suspension,hydraulic line for top needs replaced but other than that ,its great. Under rated vehicle for sure. Cruising in vegas never gets boring.
It’s good to hear about the dynamics of the car. I’m looking at a 5.0 NA or 4.2R mainly, but I’m scared about the ZF 6HP26 vs say a W211/C219 5.4 AMG which has a seemingly more robust 5G Tronic.
Hi, I’m the guy who hat just chose a second gen XKR-S after searching for both gens of XK and early 6 cylinder F types haha, super happy with my choice spent way more than a second gen XKR with similar miles goes for here in the U.S. and did briefly consider offerings from Porsche, though I spent more than is probably reasonable for a 12 year old GT car two things won me over, French Racing Blue and Rarity things I couldn’t get on other Jaguar offerings or from the P-Car.
Thank you for yr Video. I always wanted you to review the 5l V8 non-supercharged. This might not only be all the power needed for the road & for a cruiser but also because it s not a 911 the 5L might be plenty fun enaugh but also be the more plush/luxury feel XK (no supercharger noise either). I ll have a convertible even if not yr favorite. Thx again Mate !
Great review Jay. I agree with everything you say. I have the same car ( 2007 )with light interior and wood with only 34K miles. However I paid A lot more than £10k for a low mileage one as you would expect. It is also our every day car and does the job well.
2008 XKR here; the last of 4.2 supercharged with fabulous Alcon brakes. Asode from routine maintenance (DIY), I have replaced the rear bushes, the HVAC sensor/fan and my youngest daughter (with bendy and long spindly arms) sorted out the duckbill for me; lying on the engine she can just about reach the duckbill. 21+ US mpg on a run. It's been great.
@@weprinfilms An Alcon brake package was available in 2008 & 2009. It was a ~5k UK pounds option and included 6 piston front calipers on 400mm discs and 4 piston rear calipers on 350mm discs (with a seaparate caliper for the handbrake). They're awesome.
Oh interesting. I’ve never seen that on US spec cars over here. I wonder if it’s available as an aftermarket mod. I have an X350 XJ that could use some improvement there.
I love the X150 generation Jaguar XK, at least on the basis of my limited experience. I've driven a 4.2 coupe like this and found it absolutely delightful. I've also driven a 5.0 XKR convertible that was equally delightful. I definitely enjoyed the performance and fresh air of the more powerful model, if I had the money, that's the XK I'd buy. But I wouldn't be unhappy if I ended up with a really nice 4.2 XK rather than a slightly shabby XKR (I typed this sentence before you said the same thing in your review). Oddly, I never took to the X100 XK8. I've driven a similar pairing of 4.0 coupe and a XKR convertible and neither was actually bad but they didn't quite hit the spot like the later car (or the XJS, for that matter) did.
Worth mentioning that an advantage of the very early cars (pre- 23rd March 2006) is lower tax. Currently under £400 instead of about £700; which adds up over the years, especially if it's only for occasional use. I've only seen one convertible that early and I bought it! 180,000 miles but still feels as tight as a 10,000 mile car. No serious issues in 3 years for me: there's not much to go wrong compared with contemporary German cars. I like the convertible primarily because it allows the "pillarless coupe" experience by dropping all the side windows.
Had an old XK8 as a daily driver and loved it until rust took hold. Looked at the newer XK four years ago and eventually chose a 2004 DB9. The noise if the V12 made my decision, but I would have been very happy with the XK if my budget couldn't stretch to the Aston.
If you are old enough, Jaguars always had 6 cylinders (XK 1948 - 92), (supplemented by a V12 from 1971 to 1997). Go listen to C or D types at Goodwood for a proper noise. 3 into one exhaust, twice over. A Maserati 250F sounds similar.
Another excellent review from James. This time the XK Jaaag. He gives it the 👍 up. I always liked the look of this model. Still looks good today. The R is the the sweet spot of the range guys me.
Its not the same sort of car though, the Jag is much more of a luxury grand tourer, the S5 being a performance car. I don't think it would be a fair comparison for either car.
@@TheTechAudiophile I disagree , I had a 4.2 s5 for a couple of years , it was an excellent gt car , not so much a sports car . Nose heavy handling and not really that fast either .
Great video James, watched it a couple of times. I have just bought a near identical XK 4.2, debated about getting the XKR but ultimately preferred the beautiful progressive feel of the n/a. Now looking forward to some awesome road trips. These are gorgeous cars and have to say that early examples show the purity of the Ian Callum design at its best.
Jaaaaaag niiiiiiiiice……. I admit to a fondness for that model, and I did consider before being bewitched by a 996. But, in my defence, it has a Mezger flat six and a pair of turbos……. I still may have to scratch the itch and buy one……. as illustrated, the cooking model looks happiest and discreet…… some of the later cars have a Halfords lipstick over applied look about them…….. not what you want, idling in the alley behind a branch of Barclays 🙂🇬🇧 Still, I should hurry up as the Bank as a building is vanishing fast…….. 🥳
By far my favourite car I've ever owned, it's done the NC500 twice and been to Italy and back 3 times in the 5 years I've had it, threw a radiator hose in Italy but that's been the only non-consumable bill so far, couldn't recommend one more, there's nothing this side of 70-80 grand I'd rather have
I really miss mine, what a beautiful bit of engineering it was, you could drive 300 miles and get out more relaxed and in better physical shape than when you got in. Mine was Silver which really is the most graceful and understated colour. Black has some teeth, Silver and it purrs just like it should….
Great video James I enjoyed this and reminiscing about XKs 👌I’ve always wanted a top quality and loved and looked after XKR coupe 👌but I’m now thinking the Xk coupe could be a great buy for weekend B-road cruising
Get on Auto Trader. There is a mint looking 5.0 V8 for £10k in Birmingham. It's seriously good looking. I'm seriously tempted to get something like this now the kids have grown up and moved out. Mid to late life crisis perhaps.
I have a 5 litre S/C 2011(2012 model) XKR......Love it. Just treated the car to a top professional detail clean including the interior. It looks Fab Good video by the way.
I like James's comparison with this XK and the 2 litre F type, both having 300bhp, the difference is because a 4.2 V8 with 300 bhp, it's quite a low tune, it's pure easy engine power, about 70bhp p/litre, whereas the 2 litre turbo F type, it's just 2 litres forced with a turbo to produce 300 bhp, but it's forced power, its not natural engine power, its nearly 150bhp p/litre, that's highly forced power, and in driving the 2 cars James has noticed the difference
I have the 2009 XK (in US, so it is similar spec to this model being reviewed). I bought it two years ago with 33k miles, and have only driven it about 1.5k miles thus far. It is a joy to drive. Plenty of power, very comfortable inside, very nice ride, handles well, and looks good from the rear. I plan to keep it in my collection.
This is a car that I regularly take a look at and consider owning, I love its looks, especially the back half of the coupe. I bought a 996 back in 2008, the worse car I’ve ever owned, continually paying out on it, eventually the engine gave up with a cracked cylinder liner and I sold it for a fraction of what I paid for it. Always regret not having bought a 993 at the time. Really like your content and delivery Jay.
Another amazing review thank you James My friend had a 52 plate S type with the 4.2 NA V8 and yes,the noise is incredible even standard and they do go very quickly. I was impressed even with the 6 pot aluminium XJ and that sounded nice so maybe it's a shame the V6 didn't make its way into the Xk so at least the tax would be bearable...at least Jag coupes have always used to be 6 pots...
Many thanks for your video and factual information. You do have convinced me to go and look for such beautiful car within the next 5 to 6 months or early 2025. Indeed ready to pay for Eur25/35K but in very good conditions and having it for a good ten years. It’s a gentle/wo/man car who appreciate the charm of unicity with respect. Thanks again
One of my "dream garage" cars! Not interested in Top Trumping, so the 4.2 V8 in either aspiration will do, and if money was no object, I'd delete the back seats for more boot space, and have a manual conversion (6spd please!) I've NEVER loved auto boxes, as I'm a control freak behind the wheel. Something about the XK8 and later XK cars just beat EVERYTHING ELSE on the road, for style and grace, as well as VERY acceptable performance in that price range! The later 150 looked a little heavy and "chunky" for me, but "wouldn't kick her out of my garage"! My NUMBER ONE dream car has to be a Mk2 Escort in road rally/trackday trim. Add a nice low-bed pickup truck or van, a couple of bikes and an old 1990's Shogun/Pajero SWB and I'll die happy!
Jaguar ownership is rather like having Stockholm syndrome. I swear them off , they financially abuse me, and I then return to the brand. Its hopeless. I may have to add and XK to the stable , thank you for the review .
I'm going to make a bold statement about the X150 and its ZF6HP gearbox; I think it's fair to say it was the first example of a torque-converter gearbox that offered a suitable experience for a performance car, in the way that we've now come to expect as normal. The gearbox itself of course offered all the ingredients to achieve that, but other installations of the same gearbox didn't quite offer that same experience (BMW 650i or Jaguar S-Type, for example), so a lot of credit has to be given to the specific tuning for this car, including the software. I'd say this car set the blueprint for what we came to know as the default ZF 8 speed experience a few years later, and for that, this alone, Jaguar deserve some acknowledgement.
I have a 2011 5.0 na XK convertible...I love it. The back seats are ridiculous as back seats.. BUT... as open accessible boot space, they are indispensable. I use that space all the time...don't know what I would do with an F type. (and in a pinch, you can put a person back there). Outside...I always admire it when I park, and I get tons of compliments on it. Lastly, I'm here in New York City... M BMWs ....AMG Mercedes...and Maseratis are all abundant..... not the XK (or F type), making the XK Jag a bit more special.
Top of my wish list. I've wanted one (black, cream seats) since they came out but for several reasons, like moving overseas, I never got one despite having the money in the bank. I know about the 4.2 as I have had one before and in this body it must be fun. Great video.
I've always loved Jaguar's back to the XJS,Jay,the big petrol engined variety anyway,but what would put me off is the perception of numerous left turns to the hard shoulder and warning lights aplenty.
Great video JayEmm! loved the sound of the Jaaaag 😀 i have a video suggestion that I think would be quite cool, a review on the SAAB 9-3 coupe (1999-2002) version? would love to see a video on that👍
I'd love to do a 'resto-mod' XK8 (X150). Fit the Legend V12 with manual gearbox (Legend XJ13 replica). Make it a bit different styling wise (nice and subtle), using E-Type and 250 GTO clues. The main one being blocking out the 3/4 windows (250 GTO style).
I do get the eager lurch thing at junctions in my XF-S too (must be a Jag thing). In the wet, you have to watch it because it will find any excuse to spin the rears 😂. Btw, great reciew and video and the X150 will always have a soft spot - genuinely an amazing car
I love my XKRs but I'd not consider them an alternative to a 911. They're just very different cars where (especially the base XK) is a grand tourer, the 911 is the epitome of a sports car. On the later upper trims with the supercharged 5 liter pushing out over 500+ horsepower and over 460 lb-ft of torque and a snarling, raucous exhaust it's much greater than a boulevard cruiser or Sunday driver. A much more performance oriented car, but it's still not a proper sports car like the 911. It's a different type of vehicle - stylish, comfortable, loud, with a big kick in the seat when you floor it. Great for long drives and country roads, less so for mountain switchbacks.
I think they got the styling mostly spot on with these. Just surprised they didn't use the F-type name on this one, as it actually looks like it has some classic Jag DNA, which the F-type doesn't.
I’d buy one of these tomorrow but for the fact they have £695 tax. Yes I know people will justify it as less than £2 per day but I can’t do it. Too much!
It would be interesting to see a review of a similar vintage Mercedes SL on this channel as a comparison. An SL doesn't make you choose between a coupe or a convertible as it covers both bases.
CarVertical: The History Checking Service
Use this link or code "JAYEMM" for a discount!
www.carvertical.com/gb/landing/v3?b=1e4c9523&a=JayEmm&voucher=jayemm&chan=jayemm
I have a Dec06 registered X150 for sale in London if interested
I have a 2014 XK 5.0 Portfolio which I’ve owned for nearly 5 years now. I’ve put over 27,000 miles on it and have used it as a daily driver and for trips across Europe. It is without question one of the most capable and reliable cars I’ve owned. During Covid my job meant that I had to travel to and from Frankfurt and the only way to get there was by car. It did the 500 mile journey with ease. On the Autobahn it could cruise at 120mph and feel perfectly comfortable and it still returned over 30mpg. In my opinion you cannot beat a rear wheel drive naturally aspirated V8 and I think this is one of the finest Jaguar has ever produced. Ian Callum designed and suspension and handling developed by Mike Cross, it doesn’t get much better than that.
I owned a 5.0 XK Portfolio. Like you I used it as my daily driver. On one run to Cornwall it returned an incredible 37mpg. It never missed a beat in my ownership.
@@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOneI never quite achieved that level of mpg, but on a 2000 mile trip around Europe two years ago we did manage to see 35 mpg which was interestingly the same as my friend’s diesel Nissan Navara who we did the trip with.
Smell bullshit? 30 mpg at 120mph
@@volt8684It was the average over the 500 miles.
How are the parts for these ? Are there any shops that have reasonable prices?
As someone who smokes a pipe and has a Jaaag, I feel compelled to mention that I am in fact in my twenties.
Can you bring back my silver wear you "borrowed"
@@sybentley6675 what, you don't mind about the artwork?
Any lad who is in their twenties and early 30s who drive a jaaaggg has my respect, please do yes I don't mind if you borrow my cutlery, I've had many others from the many hosts that have been so kind to me. Don't tell them about the oil paintings though...
As an cigar smoker and Rover owner in his 30s, i totally agree ❤
Been watching all your XK videos over and over again, dreaming of owning one - thanks Jayemm. I’m now the very proud owner of an early high miles 08 XK in botanical green. It’s my first car, and I can’t ever see myself wanting to own anything else. That roar, that class, that feeling ❤ At 27, I think I’ll look back on this as one of the best things I did in my 20s
You got that right young man🎯
Well done! It's hard to beat the sense of occasion that a Jaguar provides during every single drive.
I’m on my second one now, had a 07 xk and now have an 05 pre production one ! Can’t believe it’s my car, and at the ripe age of 20 hah
My neighbour owned a convertible of this, new since 2008. Still being driven regularly and never seemed to have any problems. They’ve cycled through about 5/6 2nd cars but this remains on the road!
Great car, still as cool as the first day I saw it.
We traded our fully loaded Volvo S90 for a 2007 XK convertible after moving from Upstate New York to Florida in 2022. It's my wife's daily driver and she loves having the top down in just about all kinds of weather. We've had very few problems and we always get comments about the looks of the proper Jaag!
My wife and I currently have a 2008 XK 4.2L n/a. Your review is right on! Great car! It's LIGHT at around 3759 lbs, good on gas, relatively quick, handles great and rides nice, stops well, has a good transmission (manual mode shifts relatively quickly), sounds pretty good and is gorgeous and still gets an occasional comment on its good looks. We recently put Michelin Pilot Sport 4s' on it and that was a great decision. Thinking about changing the wheels on it as it has the base wheels on it. We love the car. Great review.
A Tesla and a XKRS turned the corner in front of me. The Tesla was a non event, the Jag sounded absolutely awesome. I wanted one from then on.
Shamefully I always looked at these as simply budget DB9s… until I finally drove one, glorious cars. My Maserati didn’t get driven much when I had this on my drive for a month 👏 I hope Giles is enjoying it 😊
While the X150 XK and XKR are more mechanically advanced cars, the X100 versions of the XK8 and XKR simply look more curvaceous and sexier, due to a much more obvious lineage to the E-Type. No one chooses an E-Type because it's mechanically "better" than an XK8, and no one will choose an X100 because of mechanical superiority. It all just depends on whether your inner engineer or your inner artist is behind the wheel.
I've got the XK8 on my bucket list, and it's a standard one. Plain 4.2 V8. Coupe, as it looks better. I saw a metallic maroon one pulling up to a junction as I passed, and it looked drop-dead gorgeous!
Loved these cars and always though the F-Type, while awesome itself, was never really a replacement for the XK. I miss big GT coupes with a proper V8.
The "F" had to come and it had to be a sports car not a GT. The money maker was the Pace SUV so the GT was just forgotten.
11:00 - 11:20 damn you Jay knowing exactly how the car search goes for all of us at any level!
I bought one of these last year. Mine is a Liquid Silver 4.2 XK60, which is the model produced to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the original XK engine. These cars are wonderful for covering distances in, as evidenced to me with the ease in which it took my Fiancée and I to Le Mans last year, and will be again this year. MPG is surprisingly high for a 4.2 V8, I get 35MPG on most of the long runs. Jaguar got everything that matters so very right when they made this. It's pretty, it's well equipped, it's well built, and it has just enough technology to make your life easier without the worry of it being full of a million touchscreens and other annoying "driver aids". In short, this is probably one of the best cars ever made in the last 50 years.
2024 I Wish Jaguar Bring Back the 2+2 XKR.
I recently bought a 2006 XJ8 VDP LWB 4.2 here in America. Lovely car, effortless power even though it is a NA version. Mine has been converted to coil-overs, got new A-arms at the same time. My other Jaguar is a 2016 3.0 S F-Type 6mt, another fine automobile. A friend is on the hunt for a supercharged XK, I look forward to seeing that! I'm sure I'd have been happy with a car such as this one but I did want a manual in the F-Type, paid a lot to get it!
is the MT in the f type any good?
@@johnnyjohnson8928 I like it, it isn't as good as my '16 MX-5/Miata but feels fine. I've heard it might not be as robust as later ones but the way I drive, I am 77, it should hold up well enough. I put 4,000 miles on the car last year, that will probably be fairly typical. I have the MX-5 and recently bought an '06 Jaguar XJ8, so driving will be spread around. I live in New Hampshire, the car won't come out in winter with salt on the roads, we just got over a foot of snow today.
I have just bought a 2007 4.2 XK as this video has come out. Not even picked it up yet! very excited
I have a 2007 XK that looks identical to this. My favorite car I've ever owned and it still gets lots of attention every time I drive it.
Had one for six years and agree with everything you say. Was always puzzled by it being ignored. I have an air cooled 911 and a modern MX5. They fit together well being very different but all great fun
Nice garage you've got. SC and ND ?
I had a caviar 5 litre XK for just over a year, but could not tolerate the constant creaking and groaning if I had th seat far enough back for my long legs as the seat scraped against badly placed upright .I changed it for an XJ Portfolio in silver with parchment interior and non-blacked out rear windows. What a marvellous car---I do NOT miss the too small interior of the XK.
Great car....I have an '09 XKR Portfolio...Best car I've ever owned for 20K. Get one.
I've had my 2007 coupe for 12 years and have 130k miles on it now. It is the best car of any manufacturer I've ever owned. And I've had quite a few cars since 1985!
Crazy how the X150 series XK still look modern. I love them.
Err-except the interior which looks like it came out of the 1980’s 😂
@@hughrobertson7242crying about the timeless burl wood trim lol, enjoy your carbon fiber tiktok stickers, much sportier and “modern”!
I have an early production 2006 XK 4.2 Convertible, fitted with all the optional extras Jaguar did at the time. I have not been able to confirm, but I am pretty sure it was a dealer demonstrator when they were first launched. Had it now for eight years. It s a wonderful grand tourer and a great beast in manual sport. My wife and I are driving down to the Italian Lakes in it later this year, taking in some of the lesser known Alpine passes on the way.
I own a 996. It's a great car to drive and offers excellent value for money. If you wanted a decent air cooled 911, there's no way you can get a good one under 50 thousand pounds. If you want a really good 964 or 993 you'll pay close to hundred thousand. You can virtually buy 6-10 996's for that money. It's just insane. That's the fate of the most unloved generation. But it's all good for us who are looking for a great sportscar for a reasonable money. I love the looks of the XK but it's not really comparable to a 996 in my eyes. It's more of the genre of Merc SL and Porsche 928.
I recently acquired an XFR 5.0 SC, and whilst it has a few issues to work through - leaky front crank shaft bearing, TPMS sensors issue it is otherwise proving to ve pretty reliable and GREAT to drive. Thank engine. And the handling, and steering, and the general interior. Love my Jag, and would absolutely consider getting some varient of the XK at some point.
Great video! I particularly liked your comment that it "exudes elegance - not shouty or raucous" ....which is exactly why I bought the 2007 XK 4.2 in slate grey. It's a beautiful car to drive and look at!
Can't help myself thinking this big coupe would be stunning with fullsized panoramic (idealy lifting) sunroof like Mustang 2012 optionally could have.
Imagine that visually airy cabin full of sunlight iluminating wallnut wood and almond leather.....
I own a 2006 NA 4.2 XK, with the traditional Jag interior (beige leather and wood, as it should! ^^), and I daily drive it. A car as lovely as it is classy! 😎
James, 10:18 these were sold with a 3.5 V8 as well (at least in continental Europe), developing some 260 horses.
I always thought it was odd they didn't sell the 3litre V6. That engine had more power than the contemporary BMW or Mercedes engines, which were available in the heavier 6 Series (630i) and SL300 (which admittedly are quite rare) about the same time.
@@varsas10 because this car was never sold with anything other than a V8. And I respect that.
I used to own a very similar example. What a magnificent car! Sometimes I do miss it!
Thanks fella.
I wrote the Villains spot with my creative partner and we had the best time reminding people that sometimes it’s good to be bad. The cars were always special.
Oh neat! I love that spot. I’m also commercial filmmaker and that’s definitely an inspiration piece for me. We need to produce more films like that!
Are you a creative in an ad agency?
Very clever. Made me smile.
So good I just bought one myself, although it's a 4.2 XKR Convertible. I couldn't pass up on that thrust and roof down goodness for summer!
I've had one of these as my daily driver for over 6 years now and it has been the best car I've owned. Comfortable, fast enough, great for European road trips, a fantastic engine and very reliable. I agree with what you said about it being forgiving if you aren't used to this type of car. You can gain confidence whilst living with it.
What have you done?!!!! Now they will go up in price and an XKR is my dream car!!!!!.!.!.!.!.!.!
Very nice - and accurate - review of the standard, early XK. I've had one for 10 years now and still love it. Looks & drives mint and there's not much out there now that looks better, IMO.
I have recently purchased a 2007 Liquid Silver XK convertible. I use it as a daiy. Love it. Get people complimenting it at the gas station or carwash al the time. It is fully loaded. Has a few issues such as creaking bushings in suspension,hydraulic line for top needs replaced but other than that ,its great. Under rated vehicle for sure. Cruising in vegas never gets boring.
It’s good to hear about the dynamics of the car. I’m looking at a 5.0 NA or 4.2R mainly, but I’m scared about the ZF 6HP26 vs say a W211/C219 5.4 AMG which has a seemingly more robust 5G Tronic.
Hi, I’m the guy who hat just chose a second gen XKR-S after searching for both gens of XK and early 6 cylinder F types haha, super happy with my choice spent way more than a second gen XKR with similar miles goes for here in the U.S. and did briefly consider offerings from Porsche, though I spent more than is probably reasonable for a 12 year old GT car two things won me over, French Racing Blue and Rarity things I couldn’t get on other Jaguar offerings or from the P-Car.
Thank you for yr Video. I always wanted you to review the 5l V8 non-supercharged. This might not only be all the power needed for the road & for a cruiser but also because it s not a 911 the 5L might be plenty fun enaugh but also be the more plush/luxury feel XK (no supercharger noise either). I ll have a convertible even if not yr favorite. Thx again Mate !
At 4:15 you said that the engine has 48v…that would mean it has six valves per cylinder. This is a four valves per cylinder engine; it has 32v.
@Oetti - I picked up on that and it had me counting my fingers like crazy for nearly two minutes! ...lol
That's a lot of valves! 48! I think he meant to say 32.
Great review Jay. I agree with everything you say. I have the same car ( 2007 )with light interior and wood with only 34K miles. However I paid A lot more than £10k for a low mileage one as you would expect. It is also our every day car and does the job well.
2008 XKR here; the last of 4.2 supercharged with fabulous Alcon brakes. Asode from routine maintenance (DIY), I have replaced the rear bushes, the HVAC sensor/fan and my youngest daughter (with bendy and long spindly arms) sorted out the duckbill for me; lying on the engine she can just about reach the duckbill. 21+ US mpg on a run. It's been great.
Alcon brakes. Was that an aftermarket mod you did? I was never very impressed with the brakes on these cars, either the Brembo or the standard ones.
@@weprinfilms An Alcon brake package was available in 2008 & 2009. It was a ~5k UK pounds option and included 6 piston front calipers on 400mm discs and 4 piston rear calipers on 350mm discs (with a seaparate caliper for the handbrake). They're awesome.
Oh interesting. I’ve never seen that on US spec cars over here. I wonder if it’s available as an aftermarket mod. I have an X350 XJ that could use some improvement there.
@@weprinfilms mine is here (WA). you see it on Portfolios occasionally too
Alcon brakes! You sir have taste. They are brakes from one serious manufacturer
I love the X150 generation Jaguar XK, at least on the basis of my limited experience. I've driven a 4.2 coupe like this and found it absolutely delightful. I've also driven a 5.0 XKR convertible that was equally delightful. I definitely enjoyed the performance and fresh air of the more powerful model, if I had the money, that's the XK I'd buy. But I wouldn't be unhappy if I ended up with a really nice 4.2 XK rather than a slightly shabby XKR (I typed this sentence before you said the same thing in your review).
Oddly, I never took to the X100 XK8. I've driven a similar pairing of 4.0 coupe and a XKR convertible and neither was actually bad but they didn't quite hit the spot like the later car (or the XJS, for that matter) did.
Worth mentioning that an advantage of the very early cars (pre- 23rd March 2006) is lower tax. Currently under £400 instead of about £700; which adds up over the years, especially if it's only for occasional use. I've only seen one convertible that early and I bought it! 180,000 miles but still feels as tight as a 10,000 mile car. No serious issues in 3 years for me: there's not much to go wrong compared with contemporary German cars. I like the convertible primarily because it allows the "pillarless coupe" experience by dropping all the side windows.
Had an old XK8 as a daily driver and loved it until rust took hold. Looked at the newer XK four years ago and eventually chose a 2004 DB9. The noise if the V12 made my decision, but I would have been very happy with the XK if my budget couldn't stretch to the Aston.
I’m the same, still got my 2002 Xkr. Looked at newer Xkr models but went 2008 DB9. The noise is worth all the financial pain 😂
If you are old enough, Jaguars always had 6 cylinders (XK 1948 - 92), (supplemented by a V12 from 1971 to 1997). Go listen to C or D types at Goodwood for a proper noise. 3 into one exhaust, twice over. A Maserati 250F sounds similar.
Another excellent review from James. This time the XK Jaaag. He gives it the 👍 up. I always liked the look of this model. Still looks good today. The R is the the sweet spot of the range guys me.
What about a 4.2 S5 same era? A comparison video would be cool!
Its not the same sort of car though, the Jag is much more of a luxury grand tourer, the S5 being a performance car. I don't think it would be a fair comparison for either car.
@@TheTechAudiophile
I disagree , I had a 4.2 s5 for a couple of years , it was an excellent gt car , not so much a sports car .
Nose heavy handling and not really that fast either .
@@TheTechAudiophileI think it's relevant. If you want a sporty GT with a V8 that doesn't break the bank, I think people are considering both.
Good shout
Pretty sure Number27 already did this.
Great video James, watched it a couple of times. I have just bought a near identical XK 4.2, debated about getting the XKR but ultimately preferred the beautiful progressive feel of the n/a. Now looking forward to some awesome road trips. These are gorgeous cars and have to say that early examples show the purity of the Ian Callum design at its best.
The earlier car shown here has aged way better
Jaaaaaag niiiiiiiiice……. I admit to a fondness for that model, and I did consider before being bewitched by a 996. But, in my defence, it has a Mezger flat six and a pair of turbos…….
I still may have to scratch the itch and buy one……. as illustrated, the cooking model looks happiest and discreet…… some of the later cars have a Halfords lipstick over applied look about them…….. not what you want, idling in the alley behind a branch of Barclays 🙂🇬🇧
Still, I should hurry up as the Bank as a building is vanishing fast…….. 🥳
By far my favourite car I've ever owned, it's done the NC500 twice and been to Italy and back 3 times in the 5 years I've had it, threw a radiator hose in Italy but that's been the only non-consumable bill so far, couldn't recommend one more, there's nothing this side of 70-80 grand I'd rather have
I really miss mine, what a beautiful bit of engineering it was, you could drive 300 miles and get out more relaxed and in better physical shape than when you got in. Mine was Silver which really is the most graceful and understated colour. Black has some teeth, Silver and it purrs just like it should….
Great video James I enjoyed this and reminiscing about XKs 👌I’ve always wanted a top quality and loved and looked after XKR coupe 👌but I’m now thinking the Xk coupe could be a great buy for weekend B-road cruising
Get on Auto Trader. There is a mint looking 5.0 V8 for £10k in Birmingham. It's seriously good looking. I'm seriously tempted to get something like this now the kids have grown up and moved out. Mid to late life crisis perhaps.
Heck yeah i would for sure have a XK..!! Love Jaguar cars, they are brilliant 👍🏼
I have a 5 litre S/C 2011(2012 model) XKR......Love it. Just treated the car to a top professional detail clean including the interior. It looks Fab
Good video by the way.
BEEEEEEYYYOOOOOOOOOTIFUUUUUUIL CAR - SHADES OF E-TYPE AND GORGEOUS LINES.
❤
Top review Jay very enjoyable to listen to in work
Great vibe
👌🏻
I like James's comparison with this XK and the 2 litre F type, both having 300bhp, the difference is because a 4.2 V8 with 300 bhp, it's quite a low tune, it's pure easy engine power, about 70bhp p/litre, whereas the 2 litre turbo F type, it's just 2 litres forced with a turbo to produce 300 bhp, but it's forced power, its not natural engine power, its nearly 150bhp p/litre, that's highly forced power, and in driving the 2 cars James has noticed the difference
I have the 2009 XK (in US, so it is similar spec to this model being reviewed). I bought it two years ago with 33k miles, and have only driven it about 1.5k miles thus far. It is a joy to drive. Plenty of power, very comfortable inside, very nice ride, handles well, and looks good from the rear. I plan to keep it in my collection.
How the hell you know is a joy to drive if you've only put 2K miles in TWO DAMN YEARS?
@@Andino. That is a lot of driving. It is a second car, and I mostly drive with my dog... so I use the SUV.
This is a car that I regularly take a look at and consider owning, I love its looks, especially the back half of the coupe. I bought a 996 back in 2008, the worse car I’ve ever owned, continually paying out on it, eventually the engine gave up with a cracked cylinder liner and I sold it for a fraction of what I paid for it. Always regret not having bought a 993 at the time. Really like your content and delivery Jay.
I own both and whilst I think the 996 is the best car I’ve owned the XK is a good car too but these are money pits too
Another amazing review thank you James
My friend had a 52 plate S type with the 4.2 NA V8 and yes,the noise is incredible even standard and they do go very quickly. I was impressed even with the 6 pot aluminium XJ and that sounded nice so maybe it's a shame the V6 didn't make its way into the Xk so at least the tax would be bearable...at least Jag coupes have always used to be 6 pots...
Many thanks for your video and factual information. You do have convinced me to go and look for such beautiful car within the next 5 to 6 months or early 2025. Indeed ready to pay for Eur25/35K but in very good conditions and having it for a good ten years. It’s a gentle/wo/man car who appreciate the charm of unicity with respect. Thanks again
I love my XK. Great video
another great vid as always. you have got to do the last one now the dynamic R possibly the best of the bunch
These cars are aging beautifully
4.2 litre NA V8 is capable of producing one of the best V8 notes ever!!
Just ask the Ute crowd in Australia with the Holden 253.😁
One of my "dream garage" cars! Not interested in Top Trumping, so the 4.2 V8 in either aspiration will do, and if money was no object, I'd delete the back seats for more boot space, and have a manual conversion (6spd please!) I've NEVER loved auto boxes, as I'm a control freak behind the wheel. Something about the XK8 and later XK cars just beat EVERYTHING ELSE on the road, for style and grace, as well as VERY acceptable performance in that price range! The later 150 looked a little heavy and "chunky" for me, but "wouldn't kick her out of my garage"! My NUMBER ONE dream car has to be a Mk2 Escort in road rally/trackday trim.
Add a nice low-bed pickup truck or van, a couple of bikes and an old 1990's Shogun/Pajero SWB and I'll die happy!
The battery sits between the boot and the back seat, so you would have to do a bit of engineering to delete the back seat.
@@YouCanCallMeDon so is making the Jag a manual!
@@black8art lol true
I had an 2008 xkr and it ate parts for fun and dealers didn't want to touch it for buying it off me much more enjoy my rs4
Jaguar ownership is rather like having Stockholm syndrome. I swear them off , they financially abuse me, and I then return to the brand. Its hopeless. I may have to add and XK to the stable , thank you for the review .
I'm going to make a bold statement about the X150 and its ZF6HP gearbox; I think it's fair to say it was the first example of a torque-converter gearbox that offered a suitable experience for a performance car, in the way that we've now come to expect as normal. The gearbox itself of course offered all the ingredients to achieve that, but other installations of the same gearbox didn't quite offer that same experience (BMW 650i or Jaguar S-Type, for example), so a lot of credit has to be given to the specific tuning for this car, including the software.
I'd say this car set the blueprint for what we came to know as the default ZF 8 speed experience a few years later, and for that, this alone, Jaguar deserve some acknowledgement.
That's a great 2-door car. Even with the auto, it's something special, and this is an example when Jag get's it right. It's so right.
I have a 2011 5.0 na XK convertible...I love it. The back seats are ridiculous as back seats.. BUT... as open accessible boot space, they are indispensable. I use that space all the time...don't know what I would do with an F type. (and in a pinch, you can put a person back there). Outside...I always admire it when I park, and I get tons of compliments on it. Lastly, I'm here in New York City... M BMWs ....AMG Mercedes...and Maseratis are all abundant..... not the XK (or F type), making the XK Jag a bit more special.
Pipe and slippers car? 29 and loving my XKR 😁
Lovely Saturday morning upload, this was also one of my V8 options when looking for my RS5.
Top of my wish list. I've wanted one (black, cream seats) since they came out but for several reasons, like moving overseas, I never got one despite having the money in the bank. I know about the 4.2 as I have had one before and in this body it must be fun.
Great video.
Jay immediately makes me want to trade in my Astra GTC for the XK. And after his other reviews, maybe the XKR 🤔
I've always loved Jaguar's back to the XJS,Jay,the big petrol engined variety anyway,but what would put me off is the perception of numerous left turns to the hard shoulder and warning lights aplenty.
I have one of these ! It’s such a pleasure to drive either cruising or having fun , going to keep it as long as I can afford too
Great video JayEmm! loved the sound of the Jaaaag 😀 i have a video suggestion that I think would be quite cool, a review on the SAAB 9-3 coupe (1999-2002) version? would love to see a video on that👍
I'd love to do a 'resto-mod' XK8 (X150). Fit the Legend V12 with manual gearbox (Legend XJ13 replica). Make it a bit different styling wise (nice and subtle), using E-Type and 250 GTO clues. The main one being blocking out the 3/4 windows (250 GTO style).
Philistine! ...lol
LOL@@black8art
How could you forget Ben Kingsley!?😮😢 Jay😅
I do get the eager lurch thing at junctions in my XF-S too (must be a Jag thing). In the wet, you have to watch it because it will find any excuse to spin the rears 😂. Btw, great reciew and video and the X150 will always have a soft spot - genuinely an amazing car
Beautiful car ❤
Aston vantage too
Nice car as long as you ignore the constant warning messages but then that's JLR cars 😄
I love my XKRs but I'd not consider them an alternative to a 911. They're just very different cars where (especially the base XK) is a grand tourer, the 911 is the epitome of a sports car. On the later upper trims with the supercharged 5 liter pushing out over 500+ horsepower and over 460 lb-ft of torque and a snarling, raucous exhaust it's much greater than a boulevard cruiser or Sunday driver. A much more performance oriented car, but it's still not a proper sports car like the 911. It's a different type of vehicle - stylish, comfortable, loud, with a big kick in the seat when you floor it. Great for long drives and country roads, less so for mountain switchbacks.
Great vid. Ben Kingsley the beast
I think they got the styling mostly spot on with these. Just surprised they didn't use the F-type name on this one, as it actually looks like it has some classic Jag DNA, which the F-type doesn't.
I’m Going to be Looking For A Good XK in My New Home In North Carolina!!!!
Great car the best looking jag ever made especially in convertible
That XKS GT model looks silly with the half folded step ladder on the boot. What were they thinking or were they?
48v? You mean 32v!
Soon Jaguar will just sell toy EV SUVs. I hope these classics models. last forever.
I’d buy one of these tomorrow but for the fact they have £695 tax.
Yes I know people will justify it as less than £2 per day but I can’t do it. Too much!
Personally, I fancy the previous gen XKR.
Lower road tax, cheaper insurance, and I can feel like Timothy Dalton.
There is no such thing as road tax. It was abolished in 1937.
@@Nickbaldeagle02 Don't be dense. Nobody calls it VED.
3:11 Cool video effect showing the first XK8 over the older XJS
It would be interesting to see a review of a similar vintage Mercedes SL on this channel as a comparison. An SL doesn't make you choose between a coupe or a convertible as it covers both bases.
It's a good looking car. The only thing i would want is black housing headlights to adorn the look.
Wish we could get them for that price in Canada! Almost worth considering importing one.